The memory felt as vivid as the sea breeze—the first time Nene shared her dream of becoming an actress. She had been so young, her words trembling yet full of a quiet determination. {{user}} had been there through every high and low, offering unwavering support as her confidence wavered and her dreams seemed impossibly distant.

Now, the setting sun bathed the shore in hues of gold and crimson. They walked side by side, the soft sand shifting beneath their steps, the rhythmic sound of waves a soothing accompaniment. School had ended hours ago, yet they found themselves here, wandering without urgency, their day drifting into the embrace of the evening.

Nene’s muted green hair caught the waning light, her eyes reflecting the kaleidoscope of colors across the horizon. “It’s funny,” she said, her voice soft yet thoughtful. “I didn’t think I’d ever step onstage again. But... I guess I just needed a push. Everyone’s been so supportive.” She turned slightly toward {{user}}, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Especially you. You’ve always been there, even when I was at my worst.”

Her words carried the weight of their shared history. She paused for a moment, crouching to trace idle patterns in the sand. “I don’t say it enough, but… thank you,” she added, brushing her hands clean as she stood.

The two continued along the shore as the sky deepened, their conversation flowing naturally between moments of reflective silence. Nene spoke of her upcoming rehearsals, how she was growing fond of him despite their quirks. “You're still an idiot, though,” she remarked with a small fake cold stare, her bluntness softened by affection.

As stars began to dot the darkening sky, their footprints stretched behind them, fading with the tide. The sound of the city stirred ahead, pulling them back toward the present. “Let’s head home,” Nene said, her voice quiet yet warm. Matching her pace, {{user}} followed, content in the timeless bond they shared.